So far, I have been discussing what Assertiveness is and isn’t and specific characteristics of this essential life skill. Today; I will continue by examining the importance of Establishing Boundaries.I will explore what a Boundary is, benefits of Boundaries and some key considerations for establishing them
What is a Boundary?
A Boundary has several meanings which are as follows:
- Our sense of ourselves
- How we are separate/different from others
- What belongs to us/ what we are responsible for
- Where I end and you begin
- Our limits
- What’s ok, what’s not ok
Benefits Of Boundaries
Developing boundaries offers huge benefits for personal growth and development as they:
- Prevent us from being taken advantage of
- Helps us to separate our thoughts, emotions and values from others
- keep us safe
- Lead to healthier relationships
- Help Improve self esteem
- Reduce stress and anxiety
- Reduce anger and resentment
Central to developing Boundaries is:
- Recognizing when they are being crossed
- Being aware of your basic human rights
- Being able to identify your separateness emotionally, intellectually, physically from others
- Being able to say ‘No’
Establishing Boundaries and saying ‘No’
My experience as a Therapist and Trainer has thought me that the vast majority of people who struggle with Assertiveness experience a lot of fear, stress and anxiety around saying ‘No’ and feel it is a characteristic they simply do not possess.
If you too believe and experience this, The good news is that you, like anyone else can learn how to establish boundaries and say ‘No’. It is not a personalty trait, merely a specific set of skills and techniques. On Aspire Assertiveness Courses, we combine the necessary information with strategies and frameworks and a safe place to practice thes, so you can develop confidence with setting boundaries. All course details are available on our website www.aspirecounselling.com
